Rent a Car in Kefalonia in Ionian Islands with SimplyBook

Looking to hire a car in Kefalonia? Kefalonia Island, the largest of the Ionian Islands and a jewel in the Ionian Sea, is a paradise of lush landscapes, crystal-clear beaches, and charming villages. A Kefalonia car rental is the best way to explore iconic Myrtos Beach, the ethereal Melissani Cave, and the postcard village of Assos at your own pace.

SimplyBook connects you with trusted, family-run local agencies across Kefalonia. Compare prices, book online, and pick up at the airport or port — no big international chains, and no credit card required.

Pick-up and drop-off are available at Kefalonia Airport (EFL), Sami Port, Argostoli, and many other locations around the island.

Why Rent a Car in Kefalonia

Kefalonia is the largest of the Ionian Islands, and its highlights are spread far apart — from Fiskardo in the far north to Skala in the south is well over an hour's drive. Public transport is limited and infrequent outside the main towns, so a rental car (or a hire car, as many visitors call it) is essential for reaching the island's best beaches, mountain villages and viewpoints on your own schedule.

With your own car you can chase the light to Myrtos for sunset, detour to a hidden cove for a morning swim, and stop at a roadside taverna whenever the view demands it — the kind of freedom no bus tour can offer. For families and groups, the comfort and boot space make long island days far easier.

Getting Around Kefalonia

The largest Ionian island with significant distances — Argostoli to Fiskardo takes 90 minutes on winding mountain roads. A car is strongly recommended. The descent to Myrtos Beach involves steep switchbacks with spectacular views.

Kefalonia Airport (EFL) is 9 km south of Argostoli, near Lassi resort.

Scenic Drives

Argostoli to Assos and Fiskardo (60 km, 90 min)

One of Greece's most scenic drives. Hairpin bends through pine forests to Assos — a peninsula village with Venetian castle. Continue to Fiskardo, a colourful harbour surviving the 1953 earthquake. Stop at Myrtos Beach viewpoint.

Sami to Melissani Cave and Agia Efimia (15 km)

Short drive to Melissani Cave — underground lake where sunlight through a collapsed roof creates ethereal blue light. Continue to Agia Efimia with views across to Ithaca.

Mount Ainos National Park (30 km)

Drive south to Mount Ainos (1,628m) through native Cephalonian fir forests. Views over both coasts. Wildlife includes wild horses and birds of prey.

Argostoli to Skala and the South (45 km, 1 hour)

Head southeast through gentle countryside to Skala, with its long sandy beach and Roman villa ruins. Nearby, the church at Markopoulo and the beaches of Kato Katelios make an easy, relaxed day away from the mountain roads of the north.

Beaches

• Myrtos — Often voted Greece's best. White cliffs, turquoise water. 30 km north.

• Antisamos — Pebble beach near Sami. Captain Corelli's Mandolin filming location.

• Petani — Dramatic west-coast beach beneath cliffs. Less crowded. 25 km northwest.

• Skala — Long sandy beach in the south. Shallow, family-friendly. 35 km southeast.

• Xi Beach — Red-sand beach on the south coast. Unusual and sheltered.

Best Time to Visit

June to September — hot, dry. Even peak season feels relaxed.

May and October — fewer visitors, lower prices. Spring ideal for Mount Ainos hiking.

Winter — quiet and green, with the lowest rental prices; many beach tavernas close, but Argostoli stays lively year-round.

Practical Tips

• Car essential: Large island, spread-out attractions.

• Pickup: Airport (EFL), Sami Port, Argostoli, hotel delivery.

• Ferry ports: Sami (Ithaca/Patras), Poros (Killini), Pessada (Zakynthos).

• Myrtos descent: The road down to Myrtos is a series of steep hairpins — use low gear, take it slowly, and park in the lot above the beach.

• Mountain roads: Northern routes are winding with blind corners. Sound your horn on tight bends and watch for gravel on the road edge.

• Insurance: Full CDW and theft protection are recommended for the mountain drives; many local agencies include them.

• Fuel: Fill up in Argostoli or Sami before remote areas.

Kefalonia Food

Proud culinary identity. Try kreatopita (meat pie), mandoles (candied almonds), and Robola wine — crisp white from Mount Ainos slopes. Visit the Robola Cooperative near Fragata. Fiskardo's harbour tavernas serve the finest Ionian seafood.

Why Book with Local Agencies

SimplyBook connects you with local, family-run agencies who know every mountain pass and hidden cove on Kefalonia — personal service, flexible pickup, and often cash payment without a credit card. Why support small, local companies in Greece? Other Ionian Islands: Corfu, Zakynthos.